1997 C2 - 79,000+ miles

I've had the oil-on-exhaust smell for a while now and have recently discovered what appears to be the typical timing chain cover leak (Valve covers are bone dry - Hoo-Ah!).

Over time, air movement has blown the oil off the back of the engine, along the wires to the oxygen sensors and oil has covered the oxygen sensors and leads. To put it simply, it's a frickin' mess under there.

I've searched and read and understand that cleaning is usually done with Simple Green and warm water spray, so that's next. Then I'll watch to confirm the source of the leak before deciding on a repair strategy.

Here's my question...Given the oil-soaked state of the oxygen sensors, should I replace them as I repair the leak?

The car starts easily and runs fine, but idles a little rough.

Any other suggestions/information will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Terry

 

Oil-soaked...on the outside, I take it, not the actual O2 sensor probe?

The wires entering the sensor are potted, so I would just use a quality water-based degreaser such as Factor AT30 and wash the sensors in-place (do not remove them).